Researchers at the University of Bath have developed an innovative method to remove hazardous perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water. This new technique, which utilizes 3D-printed ceramic-infused lattices, promises to significantly improve water purification processes.
The University of Bath's research team has engineered ceramic-infused lattices (or monoliths) using 3D printing technology. These monoliths can effectively remove at least 75% of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a common type of PFAS, from water.
"PFAS, or 'forever chemicals' are a major focus in water treatment and public health. We have created an efficient way to remove these chemicals from water without using lots of energy," stated Dr. Liana Zoumpouli. She emphasized the scalability of the team's process, highlighting the simplicity and effectiveness of using 3D printing to create high-surface-area monoliths. Once produced, these monoliths can be easily deployed into water systems to perform their purification role.
Co-author Professor Davide Mattia noted the current regulatory landscape, particularly the lack of stringent PFAS regulations in the UK, though guidelines do exist. He anticipates that policy changes are imminent as awareness of PFAS-related health risks grows. Water companies are expected to adopt systems incorporating new solutions to comply with future regulations.
The 4cm monoliths are produced by extruding a ceramic-infused ink through a 3D printer, forming a lattice structure. Indium oxide, the ceramic component, effectively bonds with PFAS, enabling the removal of the chemicals from water in under three hours. This process aligns well with existing water treatment infrastructure.
The research team has observed that the monoliths' efficiency improves with repeated use, as they undergo high-temperature thermal regeneration after each cycle. Further research is planned to enhance the monoliths' performance and understand the underlying mechanisms of their increasing efficacy.
